RFID A technology I advocate, despite the disadvantages Will cover what it is, how it’s used, its advantages, and its bad side.

Here’s where people already use RFID – whether they know it or not  “RFID has evolved…into a personal technology that affects everyone” -George Roussos, University of London

But, what is RFID? RFID: Radio Frequency Identification Tiny computer chips that can be put on just about anything to keep track of it A high-tech replacement for bar codes A replacement for the magnetic strips that identify credit and ID cards Completely wireless reading – can be read through packaging, cars, clothes, and sometimes walls. Can be read many feet away (I-pass) down to a few inches or less (swipeless credit cards), depending upon application.

Dozens or even hundreds of tags can be read every second – imaging reading barcodes on groceries that fast Generally two types of tags –Tagging individual items to keep track of them –Higher security tags such as swipeless payment

Well over a billion tags were expected to be sold in 2006, according to Consumer Reports Where are all these tags being used? Wireless payment (as shown previously) U.S. Department of Defense Sometimes in casinos (to keep track of the chips and gamblers) Libraries - to make keeping track of and checking out books much easier Employee access cards Greatest volume: logistics – or the transportation of merchandise Expected to be applied to all items in stores before long Even on…

If everything in the store is tagged how will we know? Consumer Reports says one of few clues may be noticing metal shelving being replaced with plastic shelving Recognizing the EPC logo on labels: Knowing what the tags actually look like

Spying? Hacking? Privacy rights activists strongly oppose RFID due to tracking abilities RFID could possibly assist thieves in selecting targets It has been demonstrated that most tags can be read by just about anyone who can obtain a reader that matches the chip standards

Spying Tagging of clothes is often a concern If every gas station, coffee shop, restaurant, and department store in the world had readers, theoretically we could be tracked worldwide.

But, Consider the perspective from Steven Shepard, author of RFID: Radio Frequency Identification: If we are worried about the corporate world collecting details about all our purchases, preferences, and social habits, then we should already be alarmed.

Definite Advantages Nearly instantaneous checkout at the store RFID Appliances: smart washing machines, ovens, and refrigerators. Open and start cars key free

Finally Despite shady areas, these RFID technology offers some great benefits and conveniences. Bottom line: agreements/compromises need to be made These tags seem to be inevitable: ”Look for mass use of radio tags by 2011.” -Jack W. Plunkett